5 tips to help you settle into a new country

1. Explore your new neighborhood 

Before you go anywhere else, get to know the area around you. Your new favorite café, the closest grocery store, or that shortcut to class? These are the little things that make a place feel like home.

Here’s your starter list:

• Locate essential spots: pharmacy, supermarket, and public transportation
• Walk or bike around the neighborhood
• Try out local cafés or parks
• Note the nearest medical center (just in case!)

Tip: Use Google Maps to save pins of useful places so you can find them quickly later.

Living in cities like Madrid or Granada? Check out our Out & About guides for the best hidden gems near each Student Experience location.

2. Build your social circle

Social integration is one of the most important steps when living in Spain — or anywhere abroad. Having people to share your experience with makes adapting faster and way more fun.

Here’s how to meet people:

• Join welcome events or an orientation program at your uni or student housing
• Say hi to neighbors in the hallway or common spaces
• Drop a message in your building’s WhatsApp group
• Attend cultural or student exchange events

Feeling nervous? You're not the only one. Everyone’s looking for new friends in the first weeks — just be the one to start the conversation.

3. Be proactive and get involved 

Waiting for things to happen? That’s a fast track to homesickness. Instead, dive headfirst into local life and make your experience your own.

Here’s what helps:

• Go to local markets, language exchanges or art exhibitions
• Learn about local customs, history and festivals
• Join a student club or sports group
• Get a part-time job or internship to connect with the international community

4. Learn the language — even just a bit

Let’s be honest: navigating language barriers is a lot easier when you know at least a few local phrases. And when you're living in Madrid or anywhere else in Spain, even basic Spanish will open a lot of doors.

Start here:

• Learn common greetings and everyday expressions
• Use free apps like Duolingo
• Join local language learning meetups
• Watch Spanish series with subtitles

People will really appreciate your effort — and you'll feel more included in jokes, conversations and culture.

5. Embrace cultural differences  

No two countries are the same, and that’s exactly what makes moving to Spain such a rich experience. From late dinners and lively street life to the siesta culture, open your mind to new ways of living.

How to embrace cultural differences:

• Say yes to trying local cuisine
• Celebrate Spanish holidays and traditions
• Learn about local laws, public transportation, and social etiquette
• Talk to locals about how things work — they’ll love sharing!

Experiencing culture shock? That’s normal. Give yourself time to adjust and don’t compare everything to back home. Adaptation is a process.

Don’t forget the practical stuff

Some tasks might feel boring, but they’re essential to your new life abroad. Here's a short moving to a new country checklist to help you settle in smoothly:

☐ Open a bank account
☐ Get a mobile phone plan
☐ Arrange health insurance
☐ Understand your visa and residency permit requirements
☐ Register with the local embassy if needed
☐ Look into the cost of living in your city
☐ Explore your options for student housing in Spain

Tip: If you're wondering “Is Spain a good place to live?” — the answer is yes. Just be prepared, and it can be an amazing experience.

Looking for a home base in Spain?

Finding the right place to live makes all the difference when you move to Spain. At Student Experience, we offer fully furnished studios with private bathrooms, kitchens, 24/7 security, and great community spaces — ideal for expats, students, and interns who want comfort and connection.

Our locations in Madrid and Granada are perfectly situated near universities, public transport, and the best of city life. Whether you’re planning to live in Spain for a year or just a semester, we’ve got you covered. Explore our student housing and find your new home today.

Living in a different country isn't always easy — but it’s always worth it. Be open, stay curious, and let Spain surprise you.